master p albums

What Is Master P’s Best-Selling Album?

by

As the 1990s hip-hop scene flourished, Master P’s album MP Da Last Don stood as a testament to his formidable presence in the industry. Released in 1998, this double album not only showcased Master P’s entrepreneurial acumen as the head of No Limit Records but also his ability to create music that resonated with the streets and the charts alike. MP Da Last Don was a crowning achievement in a career defined by both relentless ambition and a keen ear for the evolving landscape of rap.

This album marked a significant chapter in Master P’s career, blending the raw energy of Southern hip-hop with elements that appealed to a broader, mainstream audience. It was an audacious project, ambitious in scope and rich in collaboration, featuring a roster of artists who would come to define the No Limit sound. MP Da Last Don was more than just an album. It was a cultural milestone encapsulating the essence of an era in hip-hop.

MP Da Last Don: Crafting A Hip-Hop Milestone

Master P’s MP Da Last Don was a monumental release in late ’90s hip-hop, showcasing his unique ability to blend hard-hitting Southern beats with a flair for mainstream appeal. The double album format allowed for an expansive exploration of styles and themes, with Master P’s signature gritty storytelling at the forefront. The production, characterized by its bass-heavy beats and layered melodies, created a sound that was both street-authentic and commercially viable.

The album boasted an array of standout tracks that highlighted Master P’s versatility as an artist. Songs like “Thinkin’ Bout U” and “Soldiers, Riders, and G’s” featured Master P’s trademark blend of assertive lyrics and rhythmic hooks, while “Da Last Don” and “Let’s Get ‘Em” showcased his skill in crafting anthemic tunes. These tracks were not just expressions of Master P’s artistry but also reflections of the broader narratives and experiences within the hip-hop community.

Collaborations played a significant role in MP Da Last Don, with appearances from Snoop Dogg, Silkk the Shocker, and Mystikal, among others. These collaborations added diverse voices to the album and demonstrated Master P’s influence and connections within the industry. The album served as a platform for both established and emerging artists, solidifying No Limit Records’ status as a powerhouse in the hip-hop world.

Chart Triumph & Critical Acclaim

MP Da Last Don marked a high point in Master P’s career, achieving significant commercial success. The album debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200. It was a testament to its widespread appeal and Master P’s growing fan base. It quickly achieved multi-platinum status, further solidifying Master P’s reputation as a major player in the hip-hop industry. This commercial success was indicative of the growing influence of Southern hip-hop in the mainstream music scene of the late 1990s.

Critically, MP Da Last Don was met with mixed reviews. However, it was undeniable that the album captured the essence of a changing era in hip-hop. Critics recognized the significance of Master P’s work in bridging the gap between the underground and mainstream rap scenes. The album was noted for its bold production choices and Master P’s unapologetic portrayal of street life. It further resonated with audiences looking for authenticity in hip-hop.

The success of MP Da Last Don also underscored Master P’s savvy as a businessman and a visionary in the music industry. His approach to marketing the album and his broader entrepreneurial endeavors set new standards for independent artists in the industry. The album’s impact was not limited to its sales. It also played a crucial role in establishing Master P’s legacy as a pioneer in the business of hip-hop.

The Enduring Legacy Of MP Da Last Don

The influence of Master P’s MP Da Last Don extends far beyond its initial release. As a milestone in Master P’s career and the broader landscape of hip-hop, the album is a testament to his ability to capture the zeitgeist of the late 1990s. It exemplified the rise of Southern hip-hop, bringing a distinct sound and narrative to the forefront of the genre.

MP Da Last Don played a significant role in shaping hip-hop’s identity and business model. Master P’s entrepreneurial spirit, combined with his musical talent, challenged the traditional structures of the music industry. His success with this album and No Limit Records inspired a generation of artists.

Moreover, the album’s cultural impact is evident in its lasting appeal. Tracks from MP Da Last Don continue to have influenced various artists across genres. Master P’s legacy is not just that of a rapper but of a visionary who expanded the possibilities for what hip-hop could achieve both artistically and commercially.

The post What Is Master P’s Best-Selling Album? appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

Master P’s Best Albums Ranked

by

Master P has established himself over the years as a record producer and entrepreneur who built one of the most iconic labels of the ’90s and early 2000s. Out of the massive catalog released under No Limit Records, many of its biggest hits came from Master P, himself. The same unique, gritty sound that made No Limit Records a huge success was present in Master P’s solo works as well. His unique sound has allowed him to maintain a lengthy rap career. This led to making anthems that are loved by the streets today. 

While some albums by Master P have been lost to time, many have seen great commercial success. These albums continue to have a cult following to this day. Although he is now known more for being a mogul than an entertainer, fans will continue to remember him for his classics that did major numbers and solidified the sound of No Limit Records. Here are the five best Master P albums, ranked.

5. Ghetto Postage (2000)

Master P released Ghetto Postage on November 8, 2000. Though panned by mainstream music critics, Ghetto Postage was a classic to fans of the New Orleans Don. Support from fans of Master P, and No Limit’s increasing influence lead to Ghetto Postage becoming certified Gold.

The success of Master P’s ninth studio album came from two singles, “Bout That” and “Soulja.” The latter went on to chart up to No. 35 on the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs and also appeared at No. 98 on the Billboard Hot 100. Ghetto Postage also saw features from other mainstream artists, including Snoop Dogg and Tamar Braxton.

4. Only God Can Judge Me (1999)

Only God Can Judge Me was released by Master P on October 26, 1999. The rapper’s eighth studio album marked his return as a solo artist after releasing Da Crime Family alongside his group, TRU. The 23-track album sported many noteworthy contributions, including a Nas feature and Jermain Dupri production.  Only God Can Judge Me went on to become certified gold by the RIAA. The album’s hit single, “Da Ballers,” saw success on the charts, peaking as high as No. 21 on the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart. “Step to This,” featuring Jermain Dupri, also climbed to No. 40 on the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart. 

3. MP Da Last Don (1998)

By the late ’90s, No Limit Records had solidified itself in the rap game. They were already expanding their influence towards film and other media. Not slowing down and releasing his grasp on the music scene, Master P released MP Da Last Don on June 2, 1998. The album was released through Master P’s No Limit Records, Priority Records, and EMI. 

The success of MP Da Last Don was sparked by its hit singles. “Make Em Say Uhh Part 2,” “Hot Boys and Hot Girls,” and “Goodbye To My Homies” each saw charting success upon release. “Make Em Say Uhh Part 2” reached No. 19 on the Billboard Hot 100. “Hot Boys and Hot Girls” also reached No. 19 on the same chart, while “Goodbye To My Homies” climbed to No. 27. MP The Last Don sold 4 million copies in America, making it one of Master P’s best-selling works. Master P also created a film, Da Last Don, to coincide with the album. It was released on DVD on December 31, 1998. 

2. Ice Cream Man (1996)

Released on April 16, 1996, Master P’s fifth studio album was certified in both the streets and by the industry. Ice Cream Man was Master P’s first studio album to achieve RIAA’s recognition to become certified platinum. A fan favorite and a commercial success, the album’s two central singles saw a reasonable amount of time on the charts. “Mr. Ice Cream Man” charted at No. 55 on the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart. The album’s second single, “No More Tears,” charted at No. 78 on the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart. Ice Cream Man was one of the most commercially successful albums and also one of his highest-rated. It is also the first album on which Master P collaborated with Beats By The Pound.

1. Ghetto D (1997)

On September 2, 1997, Master P released his sixth studio album, Ghetto D. The album would later become one of Master P’s most popular and commercially successful albums.  Ghetto D soon became certified triple-platinum by the RIAA. The singles “Make Em Say Uhh” and “I Miss My Homies” were the main factors behind the album’s popularity. “Make Em Say Uhh” eventually sold enough copies to become a certified platinum single, charting as high as No. 16 on the Billboard Hot 100. “I Miss My Homies” charted as high as 16 on the Billboard R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart, also becoming certified gold by the RIAA. These singles solidified themselves as street anthems and the two songs that Master P is most known for. Ghetto D debuted at No. 137 on the Billboard 200 but became No. 1 in its second week, selling 260,000 copies.